This is another bird that has undergone a number of taxonomical revisions, but at present I think its called the White-headed Stilt (Himantopus leucocephalus) which separates into into a full species away from a number of other similar birds.
These birds were feeding in the area of Werribee Treatment Plant where the treated water is released into the bay. Due to somewhat elevated nutrient levels in the water this area can be a bit of a hot spot, there were a number of other waders (too distant to identify with much confidence) and a couple of a very small terms (Fairy/ Little?) feeding in the area as well.
The birds with the pale heads are younger birds. This species really does have remarkably long legs!
As ever you can join in with WBW by clicking on the button below. SM
I love these types of shore birds. These are adorable!
ReplyDeleteHari OM
ReplyDeleteEven as stilt birds go, those are some stilts!!! YAM xx
Beautiful photos! Such long legs!
ReplyDeleteIt is amazing that they do not end up with broken legs they are so long and spindly!!! Fabulous photos. Keep well, cheers Diane
ReplyDeleteGreat set of images Stewart and it was lovely to see younger ones as well as adult birds. Thanks for hosting and I hope you have a great week ahead
ReplyDeleteWell-named bird. Coincidentally this morning i had a flock of six Black-necked Stilts fly directly overhead from behind me with their ridiculously long legs trailing out behind them. They disappeared behind some trees before I could focus on them. BTW, earlier this spring I had one with a broken or malformed leg hanging straight down as it flew up. It had been standing very still in the shallow water. I wonder how it ambulated.
ReplyDeleteThank you, S!
ReplyDeleteStilts are amazing to watch, especially their elegant walk. Beautiful pictures!
ReplyDeleteDefinitely true to its name. What stilts it has for legs!
ReplyDeleteStilt is a great name for these beauties.
ReplyDeleteSo pretty!
ReplyDeleteAll the best.
Great photos!
ReplyDeleteHello Stewart,:=) Such an elegant stance, 9th picture from top. Lovely birds, and captures. Swewart, I'm having difficulty linking up, please could you link up for me.
ReplyDeleteI have promised myself I WILL GET TO SEE SHORELINE BIRDS THIS YEAR, Stewart until then, I'll admire yours...jp
ReplyDeleteLiving proof that good-looking legs come in all sizes!
ReplyDeleteThank you Stewart for linking up for me.
ReplyDeleteLong legs for sure..They look so fragile..I guess that's where the name "stilt" came from? Wonderful pictures..
ReplyDeleteLove your picture of the White-headed Stilt!
ReplyDeletehi Stewart, beautiful photos. We have them sometimes in our area. Have a nice weekend. Greetings Caroline
ReplyDelete